Five-lobed leaf, sharp brown buds, the tap tree of a Dearborn winter.

Opposite simple leaves with U-shaped sinuses (not the V of red maple). Bark becomes plated with age. Samaras are U-shaped.

Habitat

North slopes and rich coves.

Season

Tap mid-February–March when nights freeze and days thaw.

Size

60–90 ft

Field marks

U sinuses; sharp buds; plated bark